First attempt at application of shading device onto a surface.  Altitude of Sun at 0 degrees.

Altitude of Sun at 90 degrees.

Intellectual Merit

The choice of fenestration system for a structure is becoming increasingly important when taking into account occupation comfort levels. As the construction industry develops tighter regulations for the environmental performance of the building envelope, new technologies must be developed to meet these demands. A fenestration system that responds to changes in the external environment is one way of approaching this problem.

Looking at the wider application of such an investigation, the idea would not be confined to a specific site or context, but generalised to provide a ‘kit of parts’ that can be modified according to the local climate. Adjustment to the system is likely to be necessary, but through modification to a few components the design could be applicable to a large variety of locations. Additionally, if the system is based upon a regular style of window frame there would be the further possibility to apply the construction to existing building envelopes, updating their environmental performance to meet the requirements of current building regulations.

If this system is to be applied to a surface to create an array, there are going to be certain spatial qualities associated with the surrounding space. The resulting structure should not be oppressive or overwhelming, but help to define space and be an intricate and beautiful design solution.

Process

Initially, my investigations will develop from my dissertation work in exploring construction techniques for windows and panel systems, ideally making and experimenting with different interlocking and connection devices.

From these early studies, the concentration of this prototype will be on the development of the shading device and its manipulation. The exact range of manipulation necessary will be apparent from the generativecomponents model of the system, and it is through the analysis of this that I intend to begin to find a suitable design solution.

Furthermore to this, I believe that it is important to get a good grasp of the production process of glass and the limitations of the material, if it is to be the base from which the system will be created. This does not necessarily mean that glass need be incorporated, but I feel the process itself would be worth expanding upon, possibly in the form of an expanded diagrammatic sequence to which the fenestration system could be added.

Establish components of design + panel systems

Explore construction techniques

Make | Test | Adapt | Adjust

Creation of a working prototype

Deliverables

Model of prototype component, either at 1:1 or a suitable scale to show all detail necessary

‘Kit of parts’; or breakdown of assembly to show how the prototype was constructed and is replicable

Images / photos showing the model under a variety of conditions, exploring its ability to adjust to varying situations

Models + drawings of exploration into surfaces, connections, and processes made during research